Iceland Climate

Climate of Iceland

Iceland, due to its location near the Arctic Circle, is in a subpolar oceanic climate zone. A significant influence on its formation is exerted by sea currents.

The northern part of the island is under the influence of cold air masses from above the North Pole, and therefore it is somewhat colder and more severe here than in the southern areas. Meanwhile, the Gulf Stream blowing on the southern coasts brings warmer air, moderating the climate. The collision of these two air masses causes the weather to be highly variable, with sudden precipitation and frigid temperatures in a single day, as well as equally rapid warming and piercing sunshine.

Icelandic summers are relatively short and cool, while winters are long and relatively mild. Temperatures in the coldest months range from about -5°C to 3°C, while in the warmest months the mercury bars can reach 10°C - 15°C. In both summer and winter, northern and central areas tend to be a few degrees cooler than southern areas.

Precipitation also varies by region. Their annual totals range from 400 mm in the center of the island, 500 mm - 600 mm in the northern fjords to 1,200 mm - 1,600 mm in the south and southeast. Snowfall is a common occurrence, with snow cover mostly lasting from November to the end of April. In the higher parts of the mountains, the perpetual snow limit is at 650 m - 1400 m above sea level.

Although Iceland lies just below the Arctic Circle, the typical polar days and nights do not occur here. In summer the sun shines for a long time and hides behind the horizon for only 3-4 hours, while in winter the length of the days shortens, lasting only 4-5 hours.